IRS Direct Pay for paper filing return & Spouse NRA option

[samsonfrancis]

I'm doing paper filing because my wife is NRA. I'm filing 'Married filing Separately'. I have below two questions:

1. As mentioned in discussion forum, I updated "NRA" in the spot of Spouse SSN. Is it mandatory to file W7 (for ITIN) for spouse if she is still NRA and not been to USA? Also, is there anything else to update in 1040 apart from having SSN as "NRA"

2. I'm doing IRS Direct Pay for the amount I owe.  Should I keep the confirmation page with Federal paper filed return?

[DaveF1006 · Accepted solution]

It is not necessary to file a W7 at this time but you will want to apply a soon as possible so you can file electronically in 2021. Yes, it is always best to keep a confirmation page for proof of payment and filing.